best jewelry st thomas/st martin

[cruisingal0810]

Just wandering what shops would have the best bargins on either of these 2 islands for tanzanite or diamonds. Any info would be helpful. Do the ships really have any good deals?

[DelRio]

I can tell you two things.

 

Number one: I'm a photographer. Do not buy a camera or camera equipment while on a cruise.

 

Number two: My wife is in the jewelry business. Do not buy any, while you are on a cruise. If you are interested in Diamonds or Tanzanite do your homework (learn what the stones are and what to look for) then find a good dealer near your home. Five years ago the dealers on the Islands, in Mexico and in Alaska were telling people that Tanzanite was mined out. They said to buy now, that in several years the price for Tanzanite would jump ten fold. Not true, not true at all.

 

You didn't say how much money you were willing to invest. If you are looking to spend $500. have fun. I hope you find something you like. If on the other hand you are looking to spend $5,000. Keep your money at home.

 

Del

[mwebb]

Have had Very good luck negotiating a deal on a Tanzanite/Diamond ring I fell in love with at Joe's on Front Street in Phillipsburg, St M. Suggested retail was $3200. Their price was $1395. Only had $600 in cash with me and had left charge card on ship. Dear son had $30. Able to negotiate down to $630. Appraised back home by reputable jeweler who is a family friend for $3200 (who did not know the suggested retail when I had it appraised) Have also bought jewelry in St T. but IMHO prices are better in St M.

[imatarb]

Does anyone know if you can buy decent silver (sterling) in either St. Maarten or St. Thomas? I have been spoiled by Cozumel shopping for silver. :D

 

We will be doing the Eastern Carib itinerary this coming December...

[molme]

We have bought at BDazzled in St Marteen a couple of times and got some good deals. It is down the main street across from where Everythings Cool used to be. Ask for Puja, she is very nice.